The Effects of Caffeine on Hair

For many people, coffee is as essential to daily life as water; there’s a reason you can find a Starbucks on every other corner. The eye-opening effects of the caffeine in a cup (or three) of java is the kickstart a lot of us need to start our day. But alertness or jitters aren’t the only way caffeine effects our bodies. Studies suggest that coffee and the caffeine it contains can have a positive impact on the health of our hair, strengthening follicles and reducing hair loss.

There are two primary ways that caffeine can have beneficial effects on hair health:

  • It’s rich in antioxidants. Healthy hair follicles start with healthy cells. Antioxidants are substances which stimulate and encourage healthy cell production by fighting biological byproducts known as free radicals. These free radicals can damage our cells and stunt hair growth. Since caffeine contains significant amounts of antioxidants, it can limit the damage free radicals cause to our hair follicles. If you are looking to up your antioxidant intake when ordering your next cup of coffee, look to darker roasts such as French Roast or espresso which contain higher levels of these healthy compounds.
  • It fights the chemical which can cause hair loss. Men and women who suffer from pattern baldness have a genetic sensitivity to a hormonal byproduct called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT shrinks hair follicles which ultimately stop producing viable hair to replace the hair that we all lose on a regular basis. A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that caffeine works by blocking the effects of DHT and that “caffeine alone led to a significant stimulation of hair follicle growth.”

Coffee, sodas, tea and other beverages are the way most of us get caffeine. But the study which found that caffeine can fight DHT involved applying caffeine directly to hair follicles. A similar study involved applying a shampoo containing caffeine, and many shampoos and other hair care products now contain caffeine and claim to promote hair growth. While these products are by no means a magic bullet for hair growth, they can be part of an overall effort to improve the strength of your hair follicles. However, before you decide to up your coffee intake or buy hair products containing caffeine, you should consult with a physician or experienced hair restoration professional.

Schedule an Appointment for a Hair Loss Evaluation Today

At the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami, our skilled physicians diagnose and treat hair loss cases that can’t be reversed at home or through changes in diet. Through advanced hair restoration surgery techniques and alternative non-invasive treatments, we can help patients suffering with hair loss.

To receive a personalized evaluation and treatment plan, contact us online or call or office directly at 305-925-0222.